Report: AZ ranks 2nd nationally in solar power installation

Arizona ranks second nationally in solar installation, according to a newly-released report.

The 2012 U.S. Solar Market Insight Report from the Solar Energy Industries Association also shows more utility-scale solar technology was installed in Arizona over the last year than in any other state.

The annual SEIA report shows am increase in photovoltaic system installations in the state, growing from 273 megawatts worth of power installed in 2011 to 710 megawatts in 2012.

Arizona now has edged out New Jersey for the number two slot, and trails only California in solar production, the report stated.

Nationally, solar installation grew by 76 percent over the last year.

The major utility-scale projects are under way in Arizona. Agua Caliente Solar, near Yuma, is currently generating 250 megawatts. When completed in 2014, it will be the largest solar photovoltaic (PV) project in the world at 290 megawatts.

Mesquite Solar PV complex, west of Phoenix, is expected to generate 150 megawatts by later this year, and could expand to 700 megawatts upon completion.

Solana Generating Station, near Gila Bend, will be completed in 2013. Once fully operational, the 280-megawatt project will be one of the largest concentrating solar power systems in the world.

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